How Many eSIMs Does a Phone Support? Detailed Instructions for Iphone

In the digital age, eSIM has become the optimal choice for those who prefer flexibility when traveling abroad. But how many eSIMs does a phone support? And is it possible to use 2 eSIMs at the same time? In this article, Aviro will help you answer all of those questions, in a complete and easy-to-understand way!

What is eSIM and how many numbers can it integrate?

eSIM (embedded SIM) is an electronic SIM that is built into the phone's hardware, without the need for physical removal. Users can add or change plans with just a few taps on the screen.

Most new phones allow you to store between 5 and 10 eSIMs, depending on the device. However, you should note that you can only activate one or two eSIMs at a time . Storing multiple eSIMs does not mean you can use all of them at the same time.

Number of eSIMs on iOS and Android phones

1. How many eSIMs does the iPhone support?

iPhone 12, XR, XS: Supports 1 physical SIM and 1 eSIM working at the same time. Depending on the iPhone model, the storage capacity can be up to 5 eSIMs.

iPhone 13 and later: Supports up to 8 eSIMs and activates 2 eSIMs simultaneously

This feature is extremely convenient for users who need to separate personal and work numbers, or activate a travel eSIM when going abroad without having to remove the main SIM.

2. How many eSIMs does Android support?

Google Pixel 3 and later: Supports 1 eSIM and 1 physical SIM

Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, Z Fold, Z Flip: Depending on the model, can store 5–7 eSIMs

Some new Huawei, Oppo and Xiaomi devices also support eSIM but are limited in dual eSIM functionality.

In general, most Android phones can only activate 1 eSIM at a time , although they can store multiple eSIMs.

How to manage and switch between eSIMs

Source: Canva

1. How to manage eSIMs

Since your phone can hold multiple eSIMs, managing them efficiently is essential. To help you avoid confusion and use the right eSIM when you need it, here are some tips:

Name each eSIM : When installing, you should assign a clear name such as "Work", "Study Abroad", "Travel to Japan", "Aviro Singapore", etc. for easy recognition when switching or activating.

Use for specific purposes : Prioritize each eSIM for a role. For example: eSIM 1 for calls and SMS (work), eSIM 2 for mobile data (Internet), eSIM 3 for travel.
Turn off unused eSIMs : Disabling unnecessary eSIMs saves battery and reduces confusion. You can turn them back on at any time in just a few seconds.
Choose the right eSIM when traveling : Instead of using international roaming, you should activate a travel eSIM from a local carrier (like the eSIM from Aviro). However, make sure your device supports Dual eSIM if you want to use both an international eSIM and a domestic eSIM at the same time.

2. Necessary conditions to use 2 eSIMs at the same time

From iPhone 13 onwards, Apple has supported the feature of using 2 eSIMs at the same time without needing a physical SIM. To do this, you need to meet the following conditions:

Your iPhone must be iPhone 13 or later

Unlocked devices to use eSIM from multiple carriers
iOS software should be updated to the latest version to ensure compatibility.

3. How to install and use 2 eSIMs at the same time

Source: Canva

Step 1: Install the first eSIM

Go to Settings > Cellular
Select Add Cellular Plan
Scan the QR code or enter the eSIM information provided by Aviro
After installation, name the eSIM (e.g. "Work", "Travel") for easy management

Step 2: Install the second eSIM

Repeat the steps above to add a second eSIM
Give this eSIM a unique name (e.g. "Personal", "Aviro Singapore")

Step 3: Activate and manage two eSIMs

Go to Settings > Cellular
Make sure both eSIMs are enabled
Select default eSIM for:

Calls and messages : Select primary eSIM to make and receive calls and messages
Cellular Data : Select which eSIM to use for cellular data. You can also turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching to have your iPhone automatically switch between the two eSIMs based on coverage and availability.

Step 4: Manage calls and messages between two eSIMs

In the Phone app , the carrier name will be displayed, letting you know which eSIM is in use. When making an outgoing call, you can choose which eSIM will be used for that call.

Advantages and disadvantages of using multiple eSIMs

Using multiple eSIMs on your phone brings clear benefits such as:

Flexible when traveling : Easily switch between international eSIM and domestic eSIM
Separate work & personal : Use one eSIM for work, one for personal communications without needing two phones
Quickly switch packages : Just a few steps to change to another network or data package without removing the SIM

Risk reduction : No need to worry about losing physical SIM, no need to remove and install SIM slot frequently
Store eSIM for multiple destinations : Very useful if you frequently visit certain countries (e.g. Singapore, Korea, Japan...)

However, it also has its opposite side:

Simultaneous activation limit : Even though you can store multiple eSIMs, you can only use one or two at the same time.
Difficult to switch between devices : Some carriers limit the ability to transfer eSIMs from one device to another
Initial internet connection required for setup : eSIM requires a network connection (Wi-Fi or data) to scan the code and activate

Using multiple eSIMs on your phone is becoming more and more popular and convenient, especially for those who travel frequently or need to use multiple phone numbers. Why not take advantage of this smart eSIM storage feature to always be proactively connected, whether domestically or internationally, with Aviro's travel eSIM !